Sleep disturbances during pregnancy

Back pain in pregnancy is often associated with postural changes due to excess weight being carried in the abdomen. Changes in pregnancy mean the extra weight shifts the centre of gravity causing the pelvis to tilt and the lumbar spine curve exaggerate.

Women experiencing back pain and the physical demands during pregnancy often have trouble sleeping, and can suffer from sleeping difficulties and lack of sleep. A study performed by the National Sleep Foundation shows that 78% of women experience more disturbed sleep during pregnancy. Many women also report feeling extremely fatigued during pregnancy, especially during the first and third semesters.

In a study published in 2015, 66 to 94% of women reported sleep disturbances during pregnancy. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia are very common during pregnancy and may be associated with preterm birth, increased rate of caesarean sections, worse labour pain and even depression. The study also shows women who have sleep disturbances are 20% more likely to undergo caesarean or longer labour delivery.

"women who have sleep disturbances are 20% more likely to undergo caesarean or longer labour delivery."

In addition to the physical and hormonal changes a woman goes through during pregnancy, emotional demands can also take a toll. Getting your posture, spine and nervous system checked during pregnancy is especially important. If you are not comfortable getting in and out of bed or sleeping due to back pain, seek professional advice from your healthcare professional. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe, efficient and gentle.

To read and find out more about Chiropractic care during pregnancy click here.

To get your spine and posture checked please contact The Myéline Clinic here.

Get comfortable.

Get sleep.

Get adjusted.

RESEARCH:

1. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/pregnancy-and-sleep

2. Reichner A (2015), “Insomnia and sleep deficiency in pregnancy,” Obstetric Medicine. Dec 2015; 8 (4) pp168-71.

3. Naghi I, Keypour F, Ahari SB, Tavalai SA and Khak M (2011), “Sleep disturbance in late pregnancy and type and duration of labour,” J Obstet Gynaecol. Aug 2011; 31(6) pp489-91.